McIntyre steps down at Norwich

Coach Shawn McIntyre steppeddown after six seasons at thehelm of the Norwich program.
Norwich athletics photo

Norwich officials announced today the head coach of the football team, Shawn McIntyre, has resigned to pursue a professional opportunity in athletics manufacturing. The Cadets were 25-37 in his tenure, 1-23 in Empire 8 play but 11-2 in the newly formed ECFC.

Officials have named Mark Murnyack, the defensive coordinator, as interim coach and have launched a search to fill the position.

"We are sad to see Coach McIntyre go; he has done a magnificent job leading NU football, earning the inaugural conference championship in 2009 and a hosting an ECAC bowl game in 2010. However, this is a wonderful professional opportunity for him and an opportunity for us to take the Norwich football program to the next level," said Athletic Director Tony Mariano.

"With the completion of Doyle Hall, student-athletes have new locker rooms, the athletics staff has new offices, and we look forward to someday having an all-season playing field and upgraded facilities. This program has a bright future," he added.

McIntyre completed his sixth season coaching the Cadets this fall. A 1998 graduate, he played football for two years as an offensive lineman.

"It is really tough for me to leave Norwich after playing on the team as a Cadet and then coaching these fine young men for the past six seasons," McIntyre said. "A lot of factors went into this decision, and I have faith the football program can move forward in strength and unity."

Murnyack, who just completed his ninth Norwich coaching season and has served as the Cadets' director of football operations, will prepare the team for the upcoming season, oversee recruiting efforts and provide a bridge to the next head football coach.

Murnyack was a four-year letter winner at his alma mater, Juniata, and served as team captain for two seasons before graduating in 1996.

About taking on the role of interim coach, Murnyack said: "I know this team; I believe in this team and I am honored and ready to lead them into the next phase of their development."

"Mark was selected for his ability to maintain the positive momentum of the last several seasons with the returning team, his experience to work with admissions to bring in a great freshman class, and deliver a positive spring program for our football student-athletes," Mariano said. "I have great faith that Mark will work well with his staff, with the players, and with admissions to further NU football this spring. NU football is in good hands."